Kidney transplant

The goal of kidney transplantation is to restore energy and well-being to individuals with end-stage renal disease. Additional benefits of kidney transplantation over dialysis include:

• Greater life expectancy
• Improved quality of life
• Less restrictive dietary limitations

If you are already on dialysis, studies show the sooner you receive a kidney transplant, the better your chances are at achieving successful long-term function of the transplanted kidney.

Kidney transplantation has two sources: deceased donors and living donors. Deceased donor kidneys are graciously provided by families or individuals who agreed to organ donation, performed at the time of death. Living kidney donors are commonly relatives, spouses or friends confirmed to be suitable donors after undergoing a thorough evaluation.

Paired kidney exchange

Another source of living donor kidneys comes from the "paired kidney exchange" program. This involves matching incompatible donor recipient pairs to other incompatible pairs who may live locally or in other parts of the state or country.

Testing is conducted to see if the donor from one incompatible pair matches instead with the recipient of another incompatible pair and vice versa. The donor from each pair can then donate their kidney to the recipient of the other pair.

The first step of a kidney transplantation is evaluation. A physician referral is not required.

To begin, one of our team members will guide you through the questionnaire process when you call us at (512) 901-2880.

Typically, insurance covers the majority of costs associated with transplant surgery, post-transplant follow up and medications. Our team members will meet with you and your donor individually to discuss your specific insurance coverage.

Financial assistance for kidney transplants

For donors who need assistance, there are programs available to help cover a portion of the nonmedical costs. Some of these costs may include food, lodging or plane travel. Social workers are on-site to help donors apply for this assistance if they qualify.

We know making the decision to donate a kidney is a serious one, for both the donor and the recipient. St. David’s Living Kidney Donor Program offers an opportunity for donors to end the wait for prospective recipients and save lives.

Learn more about living donation and how you can help someone in need.

Our quick, online health questionnaire lets our team know more about you and your interest to become a living donor. You can get started today using these links:

• Living Kidney Donor Application
• Solicitud de donante de riñón vivo

For more information about our kidney transplant services, please call (512) 901-2880.